Sekharjyoti Baruah

is really the battle of Open RAN lost? is the business case valid to build multiple Edge data centers to host the DU/CU ? will most operators embrace the " hassle" to have multiple vendors for their RAN networks, especially in the middle east where the operators mindset and culture is to limit the stakeholders as much as possible? is the lack of technically able service integrators the main hurdle in middle east service providers to embrace oRAN? #FOOD_FOR_THOUGHTS

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What is the difference between Events and L3 Messages? 👇👇 In LTE, Events and L3 (Layer 3) Messages serve different purposes within the radio and signaling protocol stacks. Here's a breakdown of their differences: Events Purpose: Events are triggers or conditions related to radio measurements that the UE uses to report its status to the network. They are used for radio resource management and handovers. Examples: Common events in LTE include: Event A1: Serving cell becomes better than a threshold. Event A2: Serving cell becomes worse than a threshold. Event A3: A neighboring cell becomes better than the serving cell by an offset. Event A4: A neighboring cell becomes better than a certain threshold. Event A5: The serving cell becomes worse than a threshold and the neighboring cell is better than another threshold. These events are typically used by the UE to report measurements related to signal quality and neighboring cell strength to help the network decide on actions like handovers or reselections. Usage: Events are defined in the Radio Resource Control (RRC) protocol and are used to initiate measurement reports that inform the network of changes in signal conditions. L3 (Layer 3) Messages Purpose: L3 messages refer to signaling messages at the third layer of the OSI model (Radio Resource Control, RRC). These messages handle communication between the UE and the network, such as connection establishment, configuration, mobility, and security. Examples: Common L3 messages include: RRC Connection Request: Initiates the connection between the UE and the network. RRC Connection Reconfiguration: Reconfigures the connection parameters or commands a handover. RRC Connection Release: Releases the connection when the UE no longer needs to maintain the connection. RRC Measurement Report: Sent by the UE to report measurement results (based on events) to the network. Usage: L3 messages are part of the signaling process and carry important information for session management, resource allocation, and maintaining the connection between the UE and the network. Key Differences Purpose: Events trigger specific measurement reports related to the radio environment, while L3 messages are used for overall signaling, connection setup, and control between the UE and the network. Scope: Events are more related to radio measurements and handover decisions, whereas L3 messages cover a broader range of signaling tasks, including connection management, configuration, and mobility. Usage: Events guide when to report signal measurements to the network, while L3 messages manage the actual communication and command exchanges between the UE and the network. In summary, Events are conditions that trigger reporting of radio signal measurements, while L3 Messages are actual communication packets at the signaling level used to establish, manage, and control the connection.

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Some big announcements this week related to the use of #AI in Telco Mobile Networks. Timing couldn't be better as Spectrum Effect was just this week awarded the patent for the use of AI and Machine Learning Models for classifying interference types in Mobile Operator RAN networks. I have strong conviction on AI's ability to drive more efficient and effective operations of mobility networks and ultimately better outcomes for consumers of the services that mobile networks enable. We are in fantastic company to be joined on this journey with the NVIDIA, Ericsson, Nokia, and T-Mobile announcing their intentions to invest in this space. https://lnkd.in/ebB4BM9X

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How is the evolution to PON proceeding? How can Broadband Service Providers mix and match DOCSIS and PON services over HFC and FTTP lines? Join Vijay Raman on this free webinar for key insights. https://lnkd.in/euFYSx3G

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What is reason for DL throughput are not coming in LTE? 🤔🤔 There are several reasons why downlink (DL) throughput might not be optimal in LTE networks. Some common factors include: 1. **Signal Quality (SINR/RSRP/RSRQ):** Poor signal quality can significantly impact throughput. Low signal strength (RSRP) or poor signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) can result in low data rates. 2. **Congestion and Network Load:** High traffic and congestion in a cell can reduce the available resources for each user, leading to lower throughput. 3. **Interference:** Interference from neighboring cells, other network technologies, or environmental factors can degrade the DL throughput by causing errors and retransmissions. 4. **Radio Resource Management (RRM):** Poor resource allocation, such as inefficient scheduling of physical resource blocks (PRBs), can cause low throughput. 5. **Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS):** The modulation scheme selected by the network based on signal conditions (QPSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM) impacts throughput. Poor signal quality leads to lower-order modulation schemes, reducing throughput. 6. **Backhaul Capacity:** The backhaul connecting the cell to the core network may be congested or limited, affecting the overall throughput. 7. **Equipment Limitations:** The user's device (UE) or base station (eNodeB) hardware might have limitations in handling higher throughput. 8. **Transmission Mode:** The transmission mode (e.g., single-input, single-output (SISO) vs. multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO)) affects the speed. MIMO configurations typically provide higher throughput. 9. **Carrier Aggregation:** Not using carrier aggregation (CA) or using fewer component carriers can limit available bandwidth and, therefore, reduce throughput. 10. **Contention and Retransmissions:** High contention rates for resources and frequent retransmissions due to errors can also slow down throughput. A thorough analysis of the network, signal environment, and device performance is necessary to identify the specific cause in a given situation.

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RSRP : Coverage Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) - It is a critical metric used to assess the coverage of a 4G/5G mobile network. This indicator measures the linear average over the power contributions of the resource elements that carry cell specific reference signals within the considered measurement frequency bandwidth. The following classifications outline RSRP values and their corresponding signal penetration capabilities: - Excellent (-75 dBm or better): Optimal for indoor coverage. - Good (-85 to -75 dBm): Reliable performance in various environments. - Fair (-95 to -85 dBm): Adequate for in-car use. - Weak (-105 to -95 dBm): Limited outdoor connectivity. - Poor (< -115 dBm): Signal is generally unusable. Understanding RSRP helps in optimizing network performance and enhancing user experience. 👉 To learn about Network KPIs, visit - https://lnkd.in/e9TpSHzF

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RSRP : Coverage Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) - It is a critical metric used to assess the coverage of a 4G/5G mobile network. This indicator measures the linear average over the power contributions of the resource elements that carry cell specific reference signals within the considered measurement frequency bandwidth. The following classifications outline RSRP values and their corresponding signal penetration capabilities: - Excellent (-75 dBm or better): Optimal for indoor coverage. - Good (-85 to -75 dBm): Reliable performance in various environments. - Fair (-95 to -85 dBm): Adequate for in-car use. - Weak (-105 to -95 dBm): Limited outdoor connectivity. - Poor (< -115 dBm): Signal is generally unusable. Understanding RSRP helps in optimizing network performance and enhancing user experience. 👉 To learn about Network KPIs, visit - https://lnkd.in/e9TpSHzF #telecom #technology #learning #platform #itelcotech #academia

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Quite a few Open RAN reports published in the last week or so. Add this one to the "must read" category: Heavy Reading's 2024 Open RAN Operator Survey, available here: https://lnkd.in/ey-icgNj Gabriel Brown published an overview of the survey which you can read here: https://lnkd.in/es5XYNV9 On the whole, the survey should provide the Open RAN ecosystem with a much needed confidence boost although this should be tempered with the understanding that a lot of work still remains to be done! #OpenRAN #5G

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Dynamic Spectrum Sharing and Multi-RAT Spectrum Sharing Through O-RAN Architecture The challenge of limited spectrum availability complicates the transition from 5G to 6G. To address this challenge, simplifying spectrum migration is essential. The integration of Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) within the O-RAN ALLIANCE O-RAN architecture through the use of RIC and SMO offers a promising approach to managing spectrum efficiently as mobile networks evolve. By leveraging advanced RIC AI/ML algorithms and comprehensive data analytics, O-RAN enables dynamic and intelligent spectrum sharing between 5G and 6G. ◼ Implementation of DSS in O-RAN O-RAN facilitates this through its RIC and SMO components. Steps to Implement DSS in O-RAN Step 1: Policy Development and Communication Non-RT RIC: Develops and updates long-term DSS policies based on broad and historical network data, traffic patterns, and predictions. Communication: These policies are communicated to Near-RT RIC via the A1 interface. Step 2: Real-Time Decision Making Near-RT RIC: Receives policies and translates them into actionable, real-time decisions using xApps (applications running in the RIC). It handles the immediate adaptation of spectrum allocation between for example 4G and 5G networks. Step 3: Configuration and Enforcement RAN via E2 interface: Implements the DSS decisions to configure network elements for dynamic spectrum sharing, ensuring efficient resource utilization and optimal service delivery. Integration with SMO SMO Role: Manages overall orchestration and lifecycle management of network functions and service capabilities. It also plays a crucial role in gathering and disseminating data across RICs and network elements. ◼ Training Dataset and Data Collection in SMO/RIC Accurate and comprehensive datasets are essential for training the AI/ML models deployed within the RIC to predict traffic patterns, manage resources, and make informed DSS decisions. The effectiveness of DSS heavily relies on the quality and comprehensiveness of these datasets. Data Collection in SMO/RIC Non-RT RIC Long-Term Data Collection: Aggregates extensive historical network performance data, user mobility patterns, and service usage statistics. Data Sources: Includes external databases, network logs, and telemetry from various network elements interfaced through the O1 and O2 protocols. Near-RT RIC Real-Time Data Collection: Focuses on real-time network states, quality metrics like SINR, throughput levels, and user equipment reports. Dynamic Adaptation: Utilizes this real-time data to adapt and optimize the spectrum sharing dynamically, supporting the continuous tuning of DSS policies. DSS and MRSS capabilities will be essential for the deployment of 5G and beyond, as it ensures that existing services are not disrupted while new services are rolled out. #SpectrumEngineering #ORAN #OpenRAN #SpectrumSharing #DynamicSpectrumSharing #MultiRATSpectrumSharing #6G #SMO #RIC #SpectrumEfficiency

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How are we moving from Open RAN to end-to-end open networks? How is the concept of Open RAN evolving? Open RAN deployments are taking longer than some initially expected: Does it mean that Open RAN is not working as expected, or that it simply takes time to get all the parts working together? How effective are open interfaces in opening the network to a more complex, larger ecosystem? How useful are market forecasts for Open RAN? How should we define Open RAN in a market forecast (or in other contexts)? In this QuickFire podcast, I talked with John Baker at Mavenir and one of the strongest proponents of Open RAN, since the very beginnings. We have talked about Open RAN in a previous Sparring Partners, and this is an update on the progress of Open RAN and the market outlook.  https://lnkd.in/ekDwxWbM #OpenRan #ORAN #SparringPartners #RAN

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𝑶𝙥𝒆𝙣 𝙍𝑨𝙉 𝘼𝒓𝙘𝒉𝙞𝒕𝙚𝒄𝙩𝒖𝙧𝒆 Open RAN (Open Radio Access Network) is an architecture concept in the telecommunications industry aimed at disaggregating and opening up the traditionally closed and proprietary RAN (Radio Access Network) systems. Here are the main components of Open RAN: ✅ 𝑹𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒆 𝑹𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒐 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕 (𝑹𝑹𝑼): RRU is responsible for radio signal processing and transmission/reception functions. In Open RAN, RRUs are often software-defined and can be deployed in a distributed manner, enabling flexibility in network architecture. ✅ 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕 (𝑫𝑼): DU handles baseband processing functions such as modulation, encoding, and decoding of data. It interacts with the RRU for radio signal processing. Open RAN allows for the deployment of DUs from different vendors, promoting interoperability and innovation. ✅ 𝑪𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒛𝒆𝒅 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒕 (𝑪𝑼): CU centralizes control plane functions and orchestrates multiple DUs. It manages radio resource allocation, mobility management, and other network-wide functions. Open RAN enables the separation of CU from other RAN components, facilitating network flexibility and scalability. ✅ 𝑵𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒍-𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑹𝑰𝑪 (𝑹𝑨𝑵 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓): Near Real-Time RIC is a key element in Open RAN that provides intelligent control and optimization functionalities close to the RAN. It collects real-time network data and performs dynamic optimization of radio resources, such as power control, beamforming, and interference management. Near Real-Time RIC enhances network performance and efficiency by adapting to changing network conditions rapidly. ✅ 𝑵𝒐𝒏-𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒍-𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑹𝑰𝑪: Non-Real-Time RIC complements the functionality of Near Real-Time RIC by providing broader network optimization capabilities that do not require real-time responsiveness. It analyzes historical and aggregated network data to perform long-term optimization, capacity planning, and policy definition. Non-Real-Time RIC contributes to overall network efficiency and resource utilization over longer time horizons. ✅ 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒕-𝑯𝒂𝒖𝒍 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆: The interface between RRUs and DUs/CUs is crucial for interoperability in Open RAN. This interface is typically based on open standards, allowing equipment from different vendors to communicate seamlessly. ✅ 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑶𝒓𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 (𝑺𝑴𝑶): SMO is responsible for the management and orchestration of Open RAN components. It includes functions such as network monitoring, configuration management, and resource optimization. Open RAN SMO frameworks adhere to open standards and APIs, enabling multi-vendor interoperability. Did I miss anything❓ If Yes, Please feel free to add. For more content like this, Please follow Sanjay Kumar ↗️ and TelcoLearn #5g #4g #openran

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One of most under looked component in network is antenna. Operators are purely looking commercials. Although its a passive item, but choosing a right antenna is important. Money saved on a wrong or low quality antenna is much much lower than money spent over the years to better the customer experience.

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One of the six 2024 Broadband Forum Network X BBF innovation demonstrations showcased a vOMCI (virtual ONU Management and Control Interface) implementation based on two vOMCI stacks -Altice Labs' vOMCI and Broadband Forum’s Open Broadband – Broadband Access Abstraction (OB-BAA) vOMCI- through which a high-speed data service was configured on, respectively, Altice Labs and Nokia ONTs. Read more at https://lnkd.in/gAxN-PFp

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At Altice Labs, we're committed to advancing industry standards and best practices while continuously evolving our product line for access networks. In 2024, our company proudly participated in the Broadband Forum Network X BBF innovation demonstrations, showcasing the TR-451 and TR-477 specifications with an OLT connected to two virtualized OMCI (ONU Management and Control Interface) stacks and a virtualized DHCP Relay Agent. Check out this insightful video where André Brízido from Altice Labs and Tom Van Caenegem from Nokia explain the disaggregated OLT and virtualization demo, highlighting the benefits for broadband service providers.

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Modulation (5G Series : Part 12) Baseband signals are transmitted using high-frequency periodic signals known as carrier signals. Modulation techniques encode these signals by adjusting parameters like amplitude (a), initial phase (φ), or frequency (f) to efficiently transmit data. Modulation provides several key benefits: 🔹 Reduces the size of the required antenna. 🔹Minimizes interference from other signals. 🔹Enables multiplexing, allowing multiple signals to be transmitted simultaneously. Common modulation types in telecom technologies include : 🔹QPSK (Quadrature Phase Shift Keying) – Uses four phase shifts to encode two bits per symbol. 🔹16-QAM (16-Quadrature Amplitude Modulation) – Combines amplitude and phase variations to encode 16 symbols. 🔹64-QAM (64-Quadrature Amplitude Modulation) – Encodes six bits per symbol, increasing data rates. 🔹256-QAM (256-Quadrature Amplitude Modulation) – Enables even higher data throughput by encoding eight bits per symbol. 👉 To learn about telecom technologies in detail, visit - https://lnkd.in/eSYuK9V7

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Apriory to 3GPP 6G Use Cases & Service Requirements specification publishing. In summary: The Demand for Data in 6G Networks & the advancements in Communications require New Frequency Bands in mmWave Spectra/GHz. Although offering High Capacity, these Bands have a Limited Range & are sensitive to Blockages, posing Challenges to Coverage & Reliable Connectivity. Next-Generation RAN Designs are evolving to address these limitations with Innovative Devices such as Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface/RIS & Network-Controlled Repeaters/NCR, which form the basis of the Emerging Concept of a Smart Radio Environment/SRE. In a SRE, the Environment becomes an Adaptable Entity capable of enhancing Signal Propagation. Typically structured as Two-Dimensional Arrays of Tunable Meta-Atoms, RISs are deployed to strategically Re-Direct Signals & thus Improve Coverage, especially in Urban Areas where Line-of-Sight Paths are obstructed. In contrast, NCR is an Active Device with Beamforming & Amplification Capabilities & the ability to Optimize Signal Routing. Network Planning for Heterogeneous SRE/HSRE Deployment in Real Environments remains a Significant Challenge. Previous Studies considered Idealized Setups, ignoring the Constraints imposed by Buildings, User Mobility, & Installation Feasibility, e.g., Planning Strategies using Simplified Urban Layouts have shown that the Jointly Deploying RIS & NCR can significantly improve Reliability & Mitigate Blockage in Urban Networks. Comprehensive Network Planning Strategy for Realistic Environments is essential to Maximize Coverage Efficiently & Minimize Deployment Costs. To address these gaps, this Paper presents a practical Network Planning Framework for HSRE Devices, designed with Realistic Environmental Constraints & Advanced Planning Tools... this Work combines the Physical Layer Considerations of NCR vs RIS for 6G mmWave Coverage Extension: A Simulative Comparison in 2023, which includes Precise Channel & Propagation Modeling, with an Optimization Approach inspired by the Network Planning Model in “Towards Reliable mmWave 6G RAN: Reconfigurable Surfaces, Smart Repeaters, or Both?, though using a more Advanced Optimization Method. Our Model minimizes Network Deployment Costs while ensuring Full Coverage, providing an Enhancement over Prior Planning Techniques. It accounts for the Physical & Geometric Characteristics of RIS & NCR, leveraging Realistic Urban Maps to capture the Impact of Environment-specific Factors on Network Performance, assume a Cost Model where Device Costs Scale with the Configurations of SRE Components, introducing a Practical Approach to analyzing Deployment Costs based on Device Specifications. Findings reveal that Optimal Planning - specifically the Strategic Placement & tailored Configuration of RIS & NCR Devices - significantly reduces Deployment Costs while ensuring Full Coverage & demonstrates How Careful Planning & Configuration can meet High Connectivity Demands without excessive cost.

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What is the difference between Events and L3 Messages? 👇👇 In LTE, Events and L3 (Layer 3) Messages serve different purposes within the radio and signaling protocol stacks. Here's a breakdown of their differences: Events Purpose: Events are triggers or conditions related to radio measurements that the UE uses to report its status to the network. They are used for radio resource management and handovers. Examples: Common events in LTE include: Event A1: Serving cell becomes better than a threshold. Event A2: Serving cell becomes worse than a threshold. Event A3: A neighboring cell becomes better than the serving cell by an offset. Event A4: A neighboring cell becomes better than a certain threshold. Event A5: The serving cell becomes worse than a threshold and the neighboring cell is better than another threshold. These events are typically used by the UE to report measurements related to signal quality and neighboring cell strength to help the network decide on actions like handovers or reselections. Usage: Events are defined in the Radio Resource Control (RRC) protocol and are used to initiate measurement reports that inform the network of changes in signal conditions. L3 (Layer 3) Messages Purpose: L3 messages refer to signaling messages at the third layer of the OSI model (Radio Resource Control, RRC). These messages handle communication between the UE and the network, such as connection establishment, configuration, mobility, and security. Examples: Common L3 messages include: RRC Connection Request: Initiates the connection between the UE and the network. RRC Connection Reconfiguration: Reconfigures the connection parameters or commands a handover. RRC Connection Release: Releases the connection when the UE no longer needs to maintain the connection. RRC Measurement Report: Sent by the UE to report measurement results (based on events) to the network. Usage: L3 messages are part of the signaling process and carry important information for session management, resource allocation, and maintaining the connection between the UE and the network. Key Differences Purpose: Events trigger specific measurement reports related to the radio environment, while L3 messages are used for overall signaling, connection setup, and control between the UE and the network. Scope: Events are more related to radio measurements and handover decisions, whereas L3 messages cover a broader range of signaling tasks, including connection management, configuration, and mobility. Usage: Events guide when to report signal measurements to the network, while L3 messages manage the actual communication and command exchanges between the UE and the network. In summary, Events are conditions that trigger reporting of radio signal measurements, while L3 Messages are actual communication packets at the signaling level used to establish, manage, and control the connection.

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🎗 Understanding #Interference in #Cellular #Networks Co-Channel and Adjacent Channel 📈 🌟 Ever dropped calls or slow data speeds?** 😠 These could be signs of interference in cellular networks, Like **Co-Channel Interference (CCI)** and **Adjacent Channel Interference (ACI)**📊. **What are they?** 🤔 Co-Channel Interference (CCI): Occurs when multiple cells use the same frequency in the same area. Adjacent Channel Interference(ACI): Happens when two Adjacent frequency propagate in the same area, leading to distortion and reduced data throughput. 📉 **How do we tackle them?** 💪 Co-Channel Interference CCI: * 📡 **Frequency Planning:** Carefully allocating frequencies to minimize overlap. * 🧭 **Cell Sectorization:** Focusing signals within intended coverage areas to reduce interference. Adjacent Channel Interference ACI: * 🛡️ **Guard Bands:** Implementing unused frequencies between channels. * 🧹 **Receiver Filtering:** Blocking unwanted signals. **Why does it matter?** 🤔 * ⚡ **Improved Network Performance:** Reduced interference means better call quality, faster data speeds, and increased capacity. * 📈 **Enhanced User Experience:** No more dropped calls or frustratingly slow connections. **The future of interference management is bright!** 💡 we can expect even better performance and seamless connectivity. Laden Ahmed Aljaafari #2g #3g #4g #5g #CellularNetworks #InterferenceManagement #Connectivity #Innovation #Telecommunications

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